Ramtek

Location:

Nagpur district (Maharashtra)

Distance:

42 km northeast of Nagpur city

Highlights:

Shri Ram Temple

Ramtek
is a small town, situated at a distance of approximately 42 km to the
northeast of the Nagpur city of Maharashtra. It falls under the Nagpur
district and is held in high regard by the Hindus. This is because this
town is believed to be associated with Lord Rama. There is hill situated
near Ramtek, known as the Ramgiri Hill. The hill houses a historical
temple of Lord Rama, which is said to be more than 600 years old. This
temple has greatly added to the travel attraction of the city.

The legend also goes that Lord Rama stopped at Ramtek, along with His
wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, while on his exile. Another fact that
adds to the attraction of the town, from tourism point of view, is its
association with the Great poet Kalidasa. He wrote his excellent poem,
Meghdoot in the hills of Ramtek only. Infact, it is often said that it
was the beauty of Ramtek Hills that inspired him to write the poem. The
town was also the constituency from where Late Indian Prime Minister
Narshima Rao fought his election.

The major attractions of Ramtek comprise of the 27 Brahmanical style
temple that have been constructed atop the hill. Amongst them is the
Lakshmana Temple, which dates back to as far back as 1400 AD. The town
serves as the venue of the Kalidasa Festival, held every year in the
month of November. A fortnight-long festival, it boasts of performances
by virtuosos in the field of music, dance and drama. Ramsagar Lake, a
serene lake, and the Jain temple situated here are also worth having a
look at.